Delhi to install 250 water ATMs across the city

The Delhi government has approved a project to install 250 water ATMs across the national capital at a cost of Rs 58 crore, Water Minister Parvesh Sahib Singh said on Wednesday.

“We have approved the project in the board meeting; initially we will start with government schools,” Singh said.

The Delhi Jal Board (DJB) has also approved a Rs 2,000 crore project to set up 15 decentralised sewage treatment plants (DSTPs).

“This project will help in increasing the overall sewage treatment capacity by around 103.5 MGD,” Singh said at a press conference.

As part of efforts to clean the Yamuna, the government has approved in-situ treatment of the Najafgarh drain, one of the biggest contributors of pollution in the river.

“We have approved a project worth Rs 65 crore for in-situ wastewater treatment of Najafgarh and Delhi Gate drain. The work will be given for three years, and the payment will be performance-based,” he added.

The approvals come after the city recently faced water supply issues because of low raw water availability.

“The project for revival and restoration of the Wazirabad Pondage Area to enhance raw water storage and improve operational efficiency has also been approved. Now we plan to increase the holding capacity of the pond area from one day to two-three days,” Singh said.

He added that the DJB has also approved a pre-feasibility study by IIT Roorkee for laying a main line from Munak Regulator to Haiderpur to convey 1,050 cusecs of water at an estimated cost of Rs 7,240 crore.

(With inputs from agencies)